David,
My thoughts are similar to yours. I still have at least an hours drive to the Smokies, 1 1/2 hrs is common, more to get to the NC side. I am in a hurry to get there, but I try to obey the speed limits. Going home I take it easy as well, I am usually relaxed/tired from the days fishing and in no hurry to get back to Mayanardville
Neal